The bill S. 702 aims to amend various sections of the South Carolina Code of Laws to enhance the definitions and legal framework surrounding domestic violence, particularly focusing on "coercive control" and "dating relationships." It expands the definition of "household member" to include individuals currently or formerly in a dating relationship, and introduces specific definitions for "dating relationship" and "coercive control." The bill also makes it unlawful for individuals to engage in coercive control over their household members and includes harassment, stalking, and coercive control as grounds for divorce.

Additionally, the bill modifies the definitions of "abuse" to encompass harassment, stalking, and coercive control, and mandates that courts consider these factors when determining custody arrangements, particularly in relation to the best interests of the child. The amendments aim to provide a more comprehensive legal approach to addressing domestic violence and protecting individuals in vulnerable situations. The bill is currently residing in the Senate Committee on Judiciary.

Statutes affected:
12/10/2025: 16-25-10, 16-25-20, 20-3-10, 20-4-20, 63-15-240
Latest Version: 16-25-10, 16-25-20, 20-3-10, 20-4-20, 63-15-240